Marlena Rivera '22 Recruiting Profile

Not making the varsity volleyball team at the beginning of my freshman year was one of the most valuable lessons I learned as a student-athlete.  The summer entering my freshman year, I thought I would easily make varsity. I chose to play summer basketball instead of going to volleyball practices.  By the end of the summer, the coaches made their rosters and I was placed on JV. At that moment, I did not think I would make it to varsity until I was a sophomore.  I felt very disappointed. 

However, the time I spent on the JV team humbled me.  It taught me the importance of being a good teammate and being a leader.  It taught me that maturity is needed to handle difficult situations that I am sure to encounter in college.  Lastly, it taught me the importance of balance, a balance between academics and volleyball. I believe I have the tools, the talent, and the drive, to be the best student-athlete I can be for your volleyball program.